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Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Rune Post #14: Eihwaz

Happy Wednesday! Today's focus will be on Eihwaz, the thirteenth rune of the Elder Futhark, and fifth in the second aett.

Eihwaz translates to "Yew," and connects to themes of initiation, death mysteries, protection, and transformation.

Eihwaz is typically associated with Ullr, and the wood of the Yew was favored for bow-making due to its strength, flexibility, and magical protective qualities.

An Anglo Saxon rune poem reads:

The yew is a tree with rough bark,

hard and fast in the earth,

supported by its roots,

a guardian of flame and a joy

upon an estate.

Interestingly, an Old Icelandic rune poem reads:

Yew is a strung bow

and brittle iron

and Fárbauti of the arrow.

The latter portion is a reference to Loki's father, "cruel striker." The early Swedish philologist, Axel Kock, theorized that Fárbauti represented lightning (and his "arrow" set Laufey to flame, thus birthing wild fire = Loki). Both poems, then, have this reference to fire or flame. Thoughts?

Questions:1) What other meanings do you attribute to Eihwaz?2) How do you utilize this rune in your practice?3) If Eihwaz has presented itself in your rune work or castings, how have you seen its energy manifested, or experienced its impact?